'Tour de Thakurdwara' cycling festival begins

By Siraj Khan,Nepalgunj, Feb. 22: The ‘Tour de Thakurdwara 2026’ cycling festival has begun in Nepalgunj with the aim of promoting the natural, cultural and tourism potential of the Banke and Bardiya districts at both national and international levels.

Organised by the Nepalgunj Cycling Club, the festival has drawn more than 250 cyclists from Nepal and India. Participants will tour various religious and tourist destinations across Banke and Bardiya.

Former president of the club, Pradeep Sapkota, said the event aims to promote cycling in the region while encouraging a healthy lifestyle, environmental conservation, tourism development and social awareness.

On the first day, the cycling rally passed through Nepalgunj Water Park, Kantital and Siddhi Binayak Lions Park, before reaching Khadgawar Hattisar in Kohalpur. The route continued along Banke National Park, via Suteiya Tal (lake) and concluded at Gabhar Valley.

The rally also carried messages related to public awareness, health and environmental protection, organisers said.

According to the organisers, cyclists travelled from Nepalgunj towards Thakurdwara on Saturday, promoting local culture, tourist sites and social activities along the route.

More than 250 domestic and international cyclists are participating in the event, which organisers believe would help boost tourism and strengthen the local economy.

Former club president Satish Niraula said the festival aims to expand social, cultural and economic cooperation while raising public awareness about the conservation of natural heritage.